Introduction to Diplomacy

About the DAV Diplomatic Simulation Programs

The DAV Diplomatic Simulation Program exposes students to diplomacy as both a

concept and a practical set of 21st-century skills that can be applied to global
issues. Working in teams, students build rapport with others, present clear
arguments, negotiate, find common ground, and compromise to find solutions to a
shared problem such as international migration, energy security, arms control or
counter-terrorism. These 21st-century skills include:

 Critical thinking: Researching and defining a position on a foreign policy issue

and adjusting this position as the negotiation evolves

 Collaborating: Prioritizing goals and objectives, defining responsibilities within

the group

 Problem-solving: Creatively negotiating, compromising, and resolving conflict

 Communicating: Active listening, team and alliance building, weighing different

perspectives and points-of-view, articulating a position, and persuading others

 Global Competence: Investigating worldwide issues, appreciating different

perspectives on those issues, finding opportunities to improve situations, and
taking practical action

What is Diplomacy?

Diplomacy is the art or practice of conducting international relations, such as

negotiating alliances, treaties and agreements, and exercising tact and skill in
dealing with people of varied backgrounds to advance a country’s national interests
and security. Diplomatic skills can be used in a variety of individual or
organizational situations, from negotiating the hourly rate you will be paid at your
job to deciding what movie to see with your friends.

How does a Diplomatic Simulation work?

A diplomatic simulation is a collaborative learning experience during which

students step into the role of a real-life diplomat. The DAV Diplomatic
Simulations are designed for 30-35 participants. Students receive a scenario related
to a global issue, which could be real world or hypothetical, current or historic.
Within each simulation, there are five to six stakeholder groups (e.g., foreign
ministries, NGOs, and international organizations), each with different
perspectives and priorities. Students role-play these stakeholders in small teams of
three to five. Under set time constraints, the groups are challenged to negotiate a
peaceful solution to a crisis in the scenario. Students use the information provided
in the simulation packet to develop their group’s policy positions and defend or
modify their choices in real time. The simulations have no right or wrong actions
or end point because it is the process (rather than the result) that holds the most
value for the students. The learning experience develops organically as students
engage in the simulation. Once the simulation has been completed, students are
encouraged to express how their views on diplomacy have evolved as a result of
the experience and to contemplate how they can apply diplomatic skills to their
everyday lives.

What should you prepare?

1. Stakeholder Introduction Presentations (3 mins) : In groups, delegates give

introductory presentations about their Stakeholders, their Stakeholder’s
achievements and hindrances regarding the main topic.
2. Opening Speech :
  A spokesperson of each stakeholder delivers 1 min opening speech
 All stakeholders should listen closely to each group, pose questions and
express initial reactions to the solutions proposed.
3. Draft Resolution : Stakeholders finalize solutions in the last Informal
Negotiation and present final solution in the last Formal Negotiation.
Timeline :

7:15 Meeting opens participants

Technical Test (Breakout rooms by stakeholders and
delegates)
7:30 – 7:50 Opening remarks by the representative from The English
Faculty
Diplomatic Simulation Introduction and Agenda
Facilitator outlines goals, expectations, and simulation
flow
7:50 – 8:10 Stakeholder Introduction Presentation
8:10 – 8:35 First Formal Negotiation
Opening speech and question
8:35 – 9:00 First Informal Negotiation
Stakeholders have private discussions with other groups
9:00 – 9:35 Second Formal Negotiation
Stakeholders comeback for the formal discussion
9:35 – 10:10 Second Informal Negotiation
Stakeholders finalize solutions in the last Informal
10:10 – 10:35 Third Formal Negotiation
Stakeholders present final solution
10:35 – 10:45 Post-discussion feedback
10:45 – 11:00 Award Ceremony